The Embassy Chef Challenge is the only culinary competition where you can try over 30 international dishes from all over the world in the same evening. Sip on foreign beer, wine, liquors along with cocktails from all over the globe and leave feeling like you spent a night being teleported across multiple continents. From the foreign to the familiar, you will be able to explore dishes you most likely had never heard of till the event.

Courtesy of Events DC

Chef Roberto Grazioli of the Embassy of Italy posing for me during the 2014 Embassy Chef Challenge.

Craving salmon ceviche? Never tried or heard of “kottu roti” from Sri Lanka? You will have pleasure of tasting them as well as exploring dozens of other delicious cuisines.

I took this picture during the 2014 Embassy Chef Challenge. Thailand won the judges choice!

Chef Red Garcia of the Philippines returns this year to defend his title. Chef Garcia will prepare a traditional dish that uses a wrapping method called “binalot” – which is derived from the word “ballot” or “to wrap.” He will use banana leaves to wrap rice, meat, fish, eggs or pickled veggies. Chef Anuradha Wijesingne of Sri Lanka will prepare a dish called “kottu roti,” made with godhamba roti, veggies, egg or meat and spices.

Poland’s amazing dish! They had my vote!

Embassy Chef Challenge – 2014

Did you know Azerbaijan makes wine? The Eastern European country of Azerbaijan has a winemaking history that dates back 3,500 years. The mountainous terrain and geographic location near the Caspian Sea create ideal conditions to grow grapes. They have more than 400 grape varieties. You will have the opportunity to sip a few of Azerbaijan’s wines while learning more about their winemaking history.

Courtesy of Events DC

The Embassy Chef Challenge both celebrates and encourages Culinary Diplomacy. Enjoy live music and art while drinking and dining in style. New York City based band City of the Sun will headline the evening with their instrumental post-rock tunes.

Courtesy of Events DC

Food, like a smile or laughter, is a universal language that brings people together. Experience Culinary Diplomacy at its finest in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday, May 24th!

Myself along with two lovely judges, Chef Amy Riolo and Monica Bhide during the 2015 Embassy Chef Challenge.